As we reach the half term break, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a wonderfully busy and rewarding few weeks at Claremont. From the first days of September, our pupils have thrown themselves into school life with enthusiasm and positivity. It has been a joy to see new friendships forming and talents developing for each pupil.
This half term round-up offers a snapshot of the breadth of activity that has taken place across the senior school. I wish all our families a restful and enjoyable break, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for the second half of term
William Brierly Head
MEET THE TEAM: PUPIL SUPPORT HUB
Claremont’s pupil support hub remains at the heart of our school community, offering medical, emotional and academic support to pupils both in and beyond the classroom. Bringing together our school nurses, counsellors and the senior school’s individual needs (IN) team under one roof, the hub ensures every pupil receives the personalised care and guidance they need to thrive
This autumn term has seen exciting developments, including the arrival of Victoria Phillips, our new Director of IN, and additional specialist teaching and support staff who have further strengthened the senior school IN team, reinforcing Claremont’s commitment to nurturing every pupil’s wellbeing and potential.
SEE PAGE 13 TO READ ABOUT THE PUPIL SUPPORT HUB’S WELLBEING AND GARDENING PROJECTS.
A WARM WELCOME YEAR 7
Year 7 pupils recently took part in an exciting filmmaking workshop run by the Young Film Academy. Students began the day with masterclasses on film history, fight choreography, camera work and screenwriting. In the afternoon, they applied what they had learnt by creating short, two-minute films in small groups as part of the 10 shot challenge.
The day concluded with a special Oscars-style screening, where the pupils’ films were premiered for the whole group Representatives from the Young Film Academy served as judges, awarding prizes for best motion picture, best performance and best technical achievement. It was a fantastic day filled with creativity, teamwork and a great introduction to the art of filmmaking – as well as the perfect way to get to know each other through a collaborative project. I N D U C T I O N DAY
ACADEMIC ALL-STARS
AUGUST WAS A MONTH OF CELEBRATIONS WITH RECORD RESULTS IN BOTH GCSE AND A LEVEL
This August was filled with excitement and pride as our Year 13 A level students, and, one week later, our Year 11 GCSE pupils, gathered at the mansion with their families and teachers to receive their exam results.
The classes of 2025 (Year 13 and Year 11 alike) both achieved the school’s best-ever results! In A levels, over half of all grades awarded were A or A*. Year 11 pupils also reached a magnificent milestone, with *56% of GCSEs graded 7 or above (A or A)**. These remarkable outcomes reflect the dedication, focus and resilience of our students throughout their studies, as well as the support provided by the school community.
In September, our successful Year 11's became enthusiastic Year 12's, enjoying our newly refurbished and extended sixth form centre, ready to embrace the next stage of their learning. Meanwhile, our Year 13 graduates confidently headed-off to top universities including Cambridge, Imperial College and St Andrews, as well as leading creative and sporting institutions We look forward to keeping in touch with them as they progress through university.
A LEVELS 2025
I AM IMMENSELY PROUD OF THIS YEAR 11 COHORT. THEIR FIRST EXPERIENCE OF CLAREMONT’S SENIOR SCHOOL WAS DURING COVID, YET THEY HAVE STUDIED WITH DILIGENCE AND PURPOSE THROUGHOUT THE LAST FIVE YEARS. THEY DESERVED THESE GREAT OUTCOMES, AND I AM THRILLED FOR THEM. ”
William Brierly, Head
“HEARING ABOUT THE AMAZING RESULTS REALLY REASSURES ME. WE KNOW THAT WITH THE SUPPORT OF OUR TEACHERS, WE'VE GOT THIS!”
Isla, School Captain
DESTINATIONS
PRIZE GIVING CELEBRATION 2025
It was a great pleasure to come together for this year’s prize giving celebration in September, where we honoured the remarkable achievements of our pupils during the 2024-25 academic year. The event celebrated not only academic success, but also the effort, commitment, and contributions pupils made to our school community. It was a fantastic reflection of the academic excellence and dedication that define Claremont.
We were thrilled to welcome back Claremont alumna Gabrielle Heyns as our guest speaker who shared her inspiring journey from Claremont to a career in law, embodying resilience, determination and ambition We were also joined by Governors and guests of honour Hugh Thomas,w ho presented the Ellie Thomas award for the preforming arts, and Margaret Willis who presented the Willis cup
A big thank you also goes to Year 7 artists whose Van Gogh-inspired paintings of the beautiful trees that grace our school grounds provided a beautiful collage for the awards programme cover.
STUDENT FUTURES
LAURA WIGLEY, OUR NEW STUDENT FUTURES COORDINATOR TALKS ABOUT...
This half term has been an exciting and action-packed period for student futures, with a variety of activities and opportunities designed to help pupils explore their future academic and career pathways. Our Year 13 students have begun submitting their UCAS applications, marking a key milestone in their journey towards higher education, and offers are already in from universities including Warwick, Nottingham, Manchester, Sheffield, and Southampton. Discover everything that’s been happening this half term here.
CAREERS & CHOICES FRIDAYS
Year 11 pupils have been invited to attend drop-in sessions at the student futures pod to discuss their A level subject choices and explore potential career options These sessions are also open to all year groups every Friday lunchtime, providing ongoing support and guidance for students at various stages of their educational journey.
WARWICK UNIVERSITY ALUMNI Q&A
Warwick University alumni Sophia Michael hosted a Q&A session for Year 10 -13 pupils. The session drew strong attendance right from Year 10 students, with thoughtful questions about both academic life and the social experience at Warwick It was an engaging and insightful session that offered valuable first-hand perspectives on the university experience
“The Q&A session allowed me to get the perspective from someone who has been to such a prestigious University like Warwick. It allowed me to have an insight into how to make a strong application but also acted as an eye-opening experience in what it is like to go to Warwick. The talk showed me what life was like at university both from an educational and social point of view ” Kieran, Year 12 student
OXFORD UNIVERSITY INFORMATION TALK AND VISIT
Year 10, 11 and 12 students attended an Oxford information talk for those interested in applying to Oxford University Additionally, 25 Year 12 students had the opportunity to attend an open morning actually at Oxford University, which was followed by a dedicated lunchtime session focused on the Oxbridge application process, providing valuable insights into what prestigious institutions are looking for in prospective applicants
EXOPLORING CAREERS IN NATURAL HISTORY
Years 7–11 pupils attended a careers talk with Dr Pappa, senior curator of fossil mammals at the Natural History Museum. She spoke about her career in museum curation and captivated students with stories and photographs from her recent expedition to Thailand, where she was involved in fossil discovery and research. Pupils enjoyed the chance to ask questions and learn about life behind the scenes at a world-leading museum
CAREER PATHS IN SPORTS AND MEDIA WITH:
Michael Markovich, chief commercial officer at Sony Sports, visited our students to give a careers talk. With over 20 years of experience in sports strategy and partnerships, Michael shared his personal journey into the sports media industry, offering pupils a fascinating glimpse into the nature of his role and the skills required to succeed in this competitive field
ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT
LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
STUDY SKILLS WORKSHOPS FOR PUPILS AND PARENTS
Years 10–13 enjoyed an engaging study skills workshop with Oliver and Chantal from InnerDrive, exploring how to develop the right mindset, study effectively and perform under pressure Parents were welcomed to an evening session to get tips on how to support their children’s revision at home The workshops gave everyone practical tools to approach studies with confidence and focus
KEEPING SAFE ONLINE GUEST TALK
We were thrilled to welcome Karl Hopwood, independent online safety expert, for engaging day of sessions designed for pupils, parents and teachers to ensure we a all in the know with this important topic Karl shared practical tips on protecti privacy, managing digital footprints, and making responsible online choices. T sessions encouraged all of us to think critically about our online presence and gave some tools to stay safe and confident in a connected wor
JOYCE GRENFELL PROGRAMME (JGP) INSPIRE TALKS
Pupils were inspired by a talk from Force Atlantic, the first all-female army team to row the world’s toughest route 3,000 miles from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in 46 days and 55 minutes. The team shared their incredible journey, highlighting resilience, teamwork and determination, and gave students a first-hand insight into the mindset and skills needed to overcome extreme challenges.
ASTROBIOLOGY: THE HUNT FOR ALIEN LIFE!
Next half term, get ready to be inspired by Professor Lewis Dartnell, who will be delivering a lecture on Astrobiology: The Hunt for Alien Life! on Thursday 6 November at 1:30pm. Open to all, this is especially exciting for science and RS students - and anyone curious about the search for life beyond Earth
OUT AND ABOUT THIS AUTUMN
SIXTH FORM TRIP TO HERONS WAY CAMP SITE
Morocco expedition prep weekend: Pupils hiked 19 km, camped, took on teamwork challenges, practiced leadership skills and met their True Adventure expedition leaders in preparation for the real thing when they travel to Morocco at half term.
YEAR 12 TRIP TO STRATFORD
A level geography students had a great time exploring Stratford and the Olympic Park, discovering how the area has changed over time
YEAR 10 HORNIMAN MUSEUM ART & DESIGN TRIP
Our Year 10 GCSE art, textiles & photography pupils recently visited the Horniman Museum. They explored the butterfly house, the aquarium and had the opportunity to handle artefacts during a museum-led workshop. We are excited to see how these experiences will inspire their projects back in the classroom!
YEAR 12 TRIP TO PARLIAMENT
A level politics students took part in a Westminster tour and workshop where they formed their own political parties, created manifestos and held a mock general election. The day continued with a visit to the Supreme Court to watch live final statements in a real case, and then on to the iconic 10 Downing Street!
YEAR 8 KEW GARDENS ART TRIP
Year 8 enjoyed a sunny and inspiring day at Kew Gardens, sketching plant structures, exploring the giant Hive installation and interacting with the digital artwork ‘Of the Oak’. The trip ended with a tour of the glasshouses, admiring the stunning variety of plants and aquatics a truly creative day out! 8
HOUSE NEWS
HENRY
WALKER, DEPUTY HEAD OF HOUSE HALF TERM HIGHLIGHTS
AN EXCITING START TO THE HOUSE COMPETITIONS
A MAGICAL BAKE OFF ENDS THE HALF TERM ON A SWEET NOTE!
Our house bake off was full of creativity, delicious treats and fantastic effort from everyone involved. The bake off was themed ‘magic, witches and wizards’ and there was four categories - cookies, cupcakes, bread and a main cake. All categories were judged with equal weighting, and Esher came out as overall winners with their bread and main cakes particularly impressive Well done to all our talented bakers!
CLAREMONT’S CAKE AT BREAK WINNERS
CO-CURRICULAR LIFE
TO STAY UP TO DATE WITH CLUB TIMETABLES AND THE FULL PROGRAMMEPARENTS CAN ACCESS CO CURRICULAR INFORMATION VIA THE PARENT PORTAL.
We were delighted to launch our new autumn term co-curricular programme at the senior school co-curricular fair in the first week of term Everyone was buzzing with energy as pupils explored the many stalls showcasing the wide range of clubs, activities and enrichment opportunities available this term
EXCITING NEW CLUBS LAUNCH THIS TERM!
Our co-curricular programme is shaped by both our teachers and students, ensuring there is something for everyone, and something new to discover each term, such as podcast club that launched in September, our new on-site golf club, and after half term, DJ Club, led by Finn, one of our sixth form prefects
��
♂ NEW GOLF CLUB AT CLAREMONT!
WE’RE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE LAUNCH OF CLAREMONT’S VERY OWN GOLF GLUB, BASED RIGHT HERE ON SCHOOL GROUNDS! ⛳
��IN ADDITION TO THE CLUB, TRAINING TAKES PLACE SEPARATELY AT THE STUNNING CLAREMONT DRIVE GOLF COURSE, WHERE PUPILS ENJOY FRIENDLY LUNCHTIME ROUNDS, TEAM PRACTICES, AND EXCLUSIVE COMPETITIONS.
DJ CLUB
DAY: FRIDAYS
TIME: 1.30PM - 2.15PM
YEARS: 7 - 13
SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
CLAREMONT LACROSSE MAKES HISTORY WITH DOUBLE COUNTY VICTORIES!
For the first time ever, we entered four Lacrosse teams into the senior county tournament, and what a day it was!
Our first team played consistently all day, coming 2nd in their group and facing St Cat's again in the final. A nail-biting overtime golden goal secured their first county tournament victory since 1993 – a truly historic moment!
The second team were outstanding, topping their group with 6–1 wins against St Cat's and going on to win 2–0 in the final against Putney, becoming county champions for the first time ever!
The third team had a fantastic day, topping their group and reaching the Bowl semi-final. They narrowly lost, finishing 3rd in the Bowl, and showed skill, determination, and grit throughout
The fourth team competed brilliantly all day against a mix of 3rd and 4th teams, showing great spirit and resilience.
All players should be proud of their performances, and it was amazing to see how much they supported each other – a true display of Claremont spirit!
Also a shout out to the lacrosse U15B team on Saturday 27 September with their win, and to Sophie who has been selected for the Germany U21 team to compete in the Scheider Cup in Frankfurt this October. Well done everyone!
RISING TENNIS STAR: BEN SHINES IN NATIONAL RANKINGS
What a summer it was for Ben! Climbing 40 spots in the national rankings, Ben made finals and claimed titles across 14U, 16U, and even 18U, an incredible achievement for someone still in his first year of 14s!
Just some of his standout results: 14U Grade 3 singles winner
Ben also reached the finals in both singles and doubles at the Penzance Open, and was a singles finalist again at Royal Wootton Bassett. A summer of serious growth, grit, and big wins!
SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
RUGBY ACHIEVEMENT: U15A TEAM
The U15A rugby squad delivered an impressive performance, securing a commanding 33–0 victory against Grey Court School on the prestigious 1st XV pitch Played in front of a strong crowd of supportive parents, the team maintained their unbeaten record with a display of skill, discipline, and teamwork.
CELEBRATING NETBALL SUCCESS: TEAM WINS
A huge congratulations to our U14A netball team who secured a strong win against Priors Field in round 1 and are through to the next stage in the Sisters in Sport national competition! Well done to our U15A team for a fantastic effort and performance against St George’s Ascot.
JINNY SHINES AT WUKF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
In karate, congratulations to Jinny (Y11) on an outstanding achievement at the WUKF World Championships this summer. She brought home a bronze medal in her specialist category and placed 5th overall in the open category. Well done, Jinny!
ALUMNI FOOTY RETURNS FOR A FUN-FILLED TOURNAMENT VS OUR CURRENT YEAR 13
Every year, alumni return to Claremont for a friendly football tournament against our Year 13 sixth form students and it is always a highlight of the school calendar.
This year, the White Cottage Wanderers alumni team took the win, showing great skill and teamwork. It was fantastic to see former pupils back on the pitch, inspiring our current players and celebrating true Claremont spirit!
GROUNDS FOR GROWTH
EXCITING DEVELOPMENTS ACROSS CLAREMONT’S CAMPUS
NEW MULTI-SPORTS ASTRO OPENS FOR PUPILS
KEEPING CLAREMONT MOVING- PAST & PRESENT 1935-2025
SIXTH FORM CENTRE REFURBISHMENT & EXTENSION
GARDENS, GROWTH, AND GOOD HEALTH AT THE PUPIL SUPPORT HUB
We were thrilled to introduce four brand-new minibuses to our transport fleet this term, enhancing daily travel for pupils across all age groups. These new additions make journeys more comfortable and efficient. Here is a glimpse into the past and present: in the top photo see Claremont pupils in 1935 boarding the school bus, and below, our current U15A rugby team standing proudly beside a newly renovated school bus.
The pupil support hub continues to grow and evolve, combining care, expertise and creativity to nurture our pupils’ wellbeing and success in every aspect of school life
This half term the pupil support hub has championed gardening and wellbeing projects enjoyed across our school community. The late summer senior school house sunflower competition saw 138 plants sown in May flourish beautifully, while pupils in our wellbeing gardening club planted over 100 spring bulbs and harvested potatoes, carrots, spring onions and garlic.
Finally, a huge thank you to the Friends of Claremont for their fantastic fundraising efforts and generous donations this half term Thanks to their support, the hub garden now features new picnic tables and benches with board game tops, creating a welcoming space where pupils can relax, socialise and enjoy outdoor activities
Over the summer, we extended and upgraded the sixth form centre to better support our 200 Year 12 and 13 students. The new addition is the quiet room – a beautiful, bright space designed for focused learning. It includes individual study booths and collaborative teamwork areas
SUPPORT, AWARENESS, COMPASSION AND UNITY
On Friday 10 October, Claremont commemorated World Mental Health Day by supporting the YoungMinds Hello Yellow campaign. The entire school community participated in a range of activities to emphasize the importance of mental health and wellbeing.
Pupils and staff were encouraged to wear something yellow for the school day The day began with a serene dawn chorus walk around the Claremont estate, concluding with Year 11 peer leaders offering hot chocolate in exchange for donations to the YoungMinds charity. Throughout the day, pupils engaged in wellbeing activities including yellow nail painting, conversations with senior prefects and yet more hot chocolate, all contributing to fundraising efforts through the sale of yellow wristbands. Calm Club, led by Mr Jeffrey, provided mindfulness sessions to support stress relief, and the day concluded with a sixth form penalty shoot-out challenge organised by the U18 football and rugby teams.
We extend our sincere thanks to our caterers Thomas Franks for preparing a yellow-themed lunch and donating drinks for the breaktime fundraiser, and to Kingdom Coffee for their generous chocolate donation.
Rachel Heard, Assistant Head, Pupil Welfare and DDSL
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
CLAREMONT IS COMMITTED TO BUILDING STRONG CONNECTIONS WITH THE LOCAL COMMUNITY THROUGH A NUMBER OF DEVELOPING PARTNERSHIPS AND EXCITING COLLABORATIONS ARE ALWAYS BEING ESTABLISHED.
CLAREMONT
TEAMS UP
WITH HERSHAM FC TO SUPPORT GIRLS’ FOOTBALL
We are excited to announce our new partnership with Hersham Football Club to support their grassroots girls’ football programme. As part of this collaboration, we are sponsoring the team’s training tops, and our very own football star, Neive, has been featured on pitch-side banners celebrating the players. The partnership also provides opportunities for our sixth form students to get involved through volunteering. Robert, an A level photography student is supporting Hersham FC and his studies by capturing match-day action for the club, with further volunteering opportunities being explored through the Duke of Edinburgh programme. This collaboration reflects Claremont’s commitment to sport, community and student development, combining support for local grassroots football with meaningful experiences for our students
THIS HERITAGE OPEN DAY WE WELCOMED OVER 500 VISITORS!
To celebrate Claremont’s rich heritage, the school partnered with the National Trust for its annual Heritage Open Day in September, welcoming over 500 visitors of all ages As in previous years, we also partnered with Kingston Aviation, who commemorated Sir Sydney Camm’s years making aviation history at Claremont during World War II The event was made even more special through collaboration with our neighbours at Claremont Landscape Gardens, bringing the school’s historic grounds to life for the local community The occasion was further marked by a visit from the Mayor of Elmbridge, who toured the school alongside our Head, highlighting Claremont’s enduring role in the local community.
LOOKING AHEAD: VANBRUGH 300 FESTIVAL
Sir John Vanbrugh, the celebrated architect and first owner of Claremont House, laid the foundations for our estate’s enduring architectural legacy. To mark the 300th anniversary of his death, Claremont and the National Trust are coming together for ‘Vanbrugh 300’ in 2026 for a two-day celebration offering a rich and immersive experience:
Day 1: In partnership with The Georgian Group, visitors will enjoy a sweet banquet here in the mansion’s great room, including an interactive lecture and a guided walk to the Belvedere Tower, providing a truly immersive Georgian experience. Day 2: Together with National Trust’s Claremont Landscape Gardens we will host an engaging day for children again in the great room in Claremont mansion, offering hands-on activities and educational experiences inspired by Vanbrugh’s legacy.
Friends of Claremont
NEWS & UPDATES: THE FRIENDS AT WORK
THE FRIENDS OF CLAREMONT ARE OUR PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION, BRINGING FAMILIES, STAFF AND PUPILS TOGETHER TO SUPPORT SCHOOL LIFE.
THROUGH EVENTS AND FUNDRAISING, THEY HELP ENHANCE THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE FOR ALL. HERE’S THEIR LATEST UPDATE!
Come along for the fun at The Friends of Claremont’s Christmas Fair
Enjoy festive activities, treats, and the chance to explore a variety of stalls from local and small businesses.
This joyful celebration showcases Claremont’s commitment to community, creating a warm and welcoming space for all. 17
A GREAT TURN OUT AT THE AGM AND THE FRIENDS WERE DELIGHTED TO PRESENT A CHEQUE DONATING TO THE CLAYGATE HUB
